Paterson’s scandal-plagued tenure as governor was brought up almost immediately to Cuomo on Monday after announcing the appointment.

At a press availability in Manhattan, Cuomo was quick to defend his predecessor as right for the job.

“Paterson has spent a lifetime in public service, he is very involved in MTA issues going back to his days in the Senate, and I think he’s going to be a powerful advocate, and an informed voice on the MTA,” Cuomo said.

“I have known the former governor for 35 years and look forward to the opportunity to work with him again,” MTA Chairman Joe Lhota said. “He has long shared the governor’s commitment to our mission of providing safe, efficient and effective transportation to more than 8.5 million riders every day.”

“Paterson has the unique experience of leading New York through the worst recession in a generation,” Councilman James Vacca, Chair of the Transportation Committee, said. “His expertise in managing difficult fiscal situations makes him a wise selection for the MTA Board.”